Plans to expand early years provision at Elderbank

Opening hours are set to be expanded at an Irvine early years centre to ensure local families continue to have access to high‑quality, flexible early learning that suits their needs.

A review of early years capacity across the area has shown that while most communities have a good match between places and demand, some early years establishments are experiencing growing pressure for childcare spaces. To help meet this rising demand, the Council is proposing a change to the way childcare is offered at Elderbank Early Years Centre from August 2026.

Under the proposal, approved yesterday (Tuesday 27 January) by North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet, from August 2026, Elderbank will move from offering childcare only during school day hours (9am–3pm) to a longer day (8am–6pm) during term time. This would create 12 additional places for children aged three to five, and give families more choice about the hours that work best for them.

The move follows earlier adjustments made across the area, which have already helped more families secure their first‑choice nursery place and reduced waiting lists. The proposed change at Elderbank continues this work by making childcare more flexible and accessible for working parents, carers and those with varying daily routines.

Parents and carers have already been consulted to give their thoughts on early years capacity, and the Council plans further engagement with families who may be affected. As part of the proposals, some families may still be able to keep the 9am–3pm pattern if needed.

Alongside this, North Ayrshire Council will continue to monitor childcare capacity across all localities, making adjustments where required.

These changes support wider ambitions to give every child the best possible start in life while helping parents take up work, learning or training opportunities that suit their circumstances.